ANNAPOLIS, Md.,— Nearly 500 Marylanders graduated from the Department of Service and Civic Innovation’s second Service Year Option and Maryland Corps programs, celebrated at a ceremony in Annapolis. Governor Wes Moore, Lieutenant Governor Aruna K. Miller, state officials, and partner organizations recognized the cohort’s contributions, which included over 73,000 hours of community service across the state. The class, more than twice the size of last year’s, earned thousands of certifications, strengthening Maryland’s workforce and communities.
The Service Year Option, a pioneering program for recent high school graduates, and Maryland Corps, open to all ages, provide pathways for civic engagement and career development. Participants served with over 150 host organizations, including nonprofits, government agencies, and universities, gaining hands-on experience in fields like community outreach and conservation. The cohort mastered 5,100 certified competencies, earned 40 Google Career Certifications in areas such as cybersecurity and digital marketing, and secured over 300 U.S. Department of Labor apprenticeship credentials.
“Your service matters—now more than ever. As you start a new chapter, some of you will stay in Maryland. Some of you will do the work elsewhere. My only ask is that you never slow down,” said Gov. Moore. “There will continue to be those who question whether service matters. You are the case in point. So keep pushing, keep reaching—keep making it matter that you were here.”
Lieutenant Governor Miller emphasized the programs’ role in uniting Marylanders. “Governor Moore and I believe service is how we move from individual success to shared purpose – from ‘me’ to ‘we,’” said Lt. Gov. Miller. “People want to create change – they just need a pathway. I’m proud to help lead a state that provides that opportunity, and even more proud to see our Maryland Corps/Service Year Option grads take the next step in their journey. The Class of 2025, through their service, now has the opportunity to shape Maryland’s future and write the next chapter for our state.”
Graduates like Jailene Piper, a member of the Service Year Option, shared personal growth stories. “When I started my service year, it was hard for me to imagine that there would be a place for an awkward teenager in a world of professionals with decades of experience over me,” said Piper. “I decided to adopt the mindset of someone who is competent, composed, and confident. When I took the initiative to adopt that mindset, it manifested in the way I carried myself and the way I spoke. Although I did doubt myself at times, I would smile through it until it didn’t feel like an act, it became who I am. The impact of the past nine months helped me gain confidence, open up and step out of my comfort zone.”
Host partners praised the cohort’s impact. The Maryland Department of Veterans and Military Families, which hosted members, reported that their work supported nearly 1,200 veterans and military families since 2023. “Partnering with the Maryland Corps/Service Year Option program reflects our department’s strong commitment to cultivating a spirit of service in Maryland’s future leaders,” said Ross Cohen, Acting Secretary. “This initiative is about more than launching careers—it’s about shaping a generation grounded in duty, purpose, and community impact.”
The Maryland Department of General Services also benefited. “We were honored to host the exceptional members from the second Maryland Corps/Service Year Option class, whose contributions sparked innovation and momentum within our agency,” said Secretary Atif Chaudhry. “Their initiative and fresh perspective helped us better serve the people of Maryland.”
Kurt Schmoke, the University of Baltimore President and former Baltimore Mayor, highlighted the programs’ educational value. “This class reflects what we consistently see in higher education – when students are engaged in real-world, hands-on experiences, they gain critical skills, grow in confidence, and contribute meaningfully to their communities,” said Schmoke. “Governor Moore and the Department of Service and Civic Innovation recognize the potential of these driven young Marylanders. With the right support, they won’t just strengthen our workforce – they’ll also continue advancing their education and shaping the future of our state.”
Paul Monteiro, Secretary of the Department of Service and Civic Innovation, noted the cohort’s diversity and reach. “Maryland has a distinguished history of civic engagement, service, and volunteerism – and we knew Governor Moore’s call to service would resonate across generations,” said Monteiro. “This year’s enrollment grew significantly and saw most earn a certification or federal apprenticeship credential through their service. This class included members from every region of our state and demonstrated how individuals of all backgrounds can come together through a common purpose. We are deeply proud of and grateful for this exceptional class.”
The programs prepare graduates for Maryland’s evolving economy, equipping them with skills in project management, IT support, and other areas. Host organizations provided mentorship, job training, and benefits such as healthcare, ensuring meaningful experiences. As the programs enter their third year, applications for the next cohort, starting in September, are open at serve.maryland.gov.
